TOW #9: "Is everyone on their cell phone now?" Bill Flick

When walking outside today, cell phones can be seen glued to the hands of people all around. In stores, restaurants, gyms, even movie theaters, everyone is stuck with their eyes reflecting glowing screens. These devices are often noted as evidence of great technology innovation, but the obsession is also frequently addressed as a growing problem. In the article "Is everyone on their cell phone now?," author Bill Flick uses anecdotes to portray his opinion on the overuse of cell phones. Flick's first story takes place in a Target store, which is a very popular chain that many people have shopped at before. By using this setting, along with his complaint on the shoppers' phones, he creates a connection with his audience. The intended audience seems to be mostly Americans, due to the fact that cell phones are becoming a normal addition to the American culture. Everyone can relate to this, whether they are avid cell users (realizing they need to cut back), or people who have witnessed the lack of actually face to face talking. After that example, Flick mentioned a car accident that he had seen, which was caused because of texting. This example appeals to pathos because of the danger the cell phone created. This makes readers feel angry and upset, because the phone indirectly put somebody's life in danger. His use of rhetorical questioning causes readers to reflect on their own use of phones. "Are we all so busy now that we don’t have any other time to talk on the phone, except when we’re busy doing something else?" This is a very important question to consider. Do people need to be shopping and talking? Driving and texting? This multitasking is rude, let alone dangerous. Flick makes sure to add a statement at the end, saying that he is "as guilty as the next who feels pushed for time." By saying this, the author creates more credibility for himself, almost as if saying, "I am human too, I make mistakes." This article made me rethink how much time I spend on my phone, when I could, and am, doing other things. I believe that that is what Flick was trying to do, inspire readers to do a self-reflection. After reading, I know that I will be more aware when I am glued to my phone.

http://blog.heartland.org/2012/11/wireless-taxes-and-fees-continue-to-rise/

http://www.pantagraph.com/blogs/flick/flick-is-everyone-on-their-cell-phone-now/article_c258e6b6-4bd5-11e3-9446-0019bb2963f4.html